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Like Dr Who, the Syd Lawrence Orchestra has been through many incarnations. The band taken on the road by Syd Lawrence in 1967 has constantly evolved through personnel changes.
But, even Syd’s own retirement in 1996 didn’t affect the fundamental quality of the organisation he founded.
The Syd Lawrence Orchestra of today, led by Syd’s former lead trombonist Chris Dean, is as popular as ever. Its place at the top has recently been confirmed by its ninth successive win in the Big Bands International popularity polls. Recent changes to the Orchestra’s personnel have brought a much younger face to this treasured national institution. With six of the musicians in their 20’s and an average age in the Orchestra of around 32, this is not what you generally expect from a Band specialising in this era of music.
The Orchestra’s latest album Re:Generation marking the 40th Anniversary of the founding of the Orchestra reflects this evolution. The intended pun in the title points both to the unexpected youth of the Orchestra and the breath of fresh life that this new generation of musicians has broght to this vibrant, exciting, swinging music.
The album spans the history of the Orchestra with repertoire ranging from Syd’s own signature tune in the Miller style ‘Evening Serenade’ to star drummer Mike Smith’s blistering solo on the Count Basie version of ‘Old Man River’. Also included is Colin Skinner’s comic arrangement a la Billy May of ‘Baby Wont You Please Come Home’ the Count Basie classic ‘Splanky’, a sparkling duel of trombones in ‘When You Wish Upon A Star’ and vocal contributions from Eleanor Keenan, Angie Mills and leader Chris Dean.
In concert, the Band’s legendary precision, tight ensemble playing and strong soloists combine with the camaraderie, dedication and enthusiasm of its musicians to produce a dynamite blend which makes this Band of young musicians deserving of their continuing rein as ‘Best Band in the Land’
1. 'Ol Man River
2. When You Wish Upon A Star
3. It's A Most Unusual Day
4. Evening Serenade
5. English Folk Medley
6. A Portrait Of My Love
7. Splanky
8. Stairway To The Stars
9. Chattanooga Choo Choo
10. Music, Maestro Please
11. As Long As I Am Singing
12. I'll Close My Eyes
13. Top Hat, White Tie And Tails
14. Maybe This Time
15. Baby Won't You PLease Come Home
16. My Favourite Things |
